OpenAI quietly removes ban on military use of its AI tools
CNBCJan 03
OpenAI Removes Ban on Military Use of its AI Tools
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The Facts
During an interview with Bloomberg at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, OpenAI Vice President of Global Affairs Anna Makanju revealed that the company has removed a "blanket prohibition" on military collaboration.
Speaking alongside OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Makanju said that while the company still prohibited the use of its technology to "develop weapons, destroy property or harm people," it had started to partner with the US Department of Defense.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
OpenAI's decision to change its military policy provides America with an exciting opportunity to revolutionize the way it defends the world against adversaries such as China. AI has now reached a stage where its technology will be of benefit to the US, and the collaboration will give the government access to an exciting pool of private-sector tech scientists who can help bolster national security.
Establishment-critical narrative
OpenAI's change in policy is an intentional choice to expand its markets to the defense industry in order to rake in extreme profits at the potential expense of humanity's future. AI will leave the weapons industry unchecked, and futuristic robotic killing machines are possibly closer to reality than the world should feel comfortable with. Once and for all, the arms industry must finally be restricted by legislation before it is too late.